Behind the laughter
One More Thing: Stories and Other Stories
B.J. Novak, best known for his role as Ryan “the temp” on The Office, channels his comedic writing skills into more than 50 short stories inside One More Thing (Knopf, $24.95). Every piece is reliably funny, but many transcend the jokes to form an insightful critique of American pop culture. What truths are revealed when Comedy Central roasts Nelson Mandela? What does it mean for society when “love” fails to win The Best Thing in the World Awards (hosted by Neil Patrick Harris)? These timely, humorous stories point beyond the punch lines, always asking the reader to notice just one more thing.